This simple and delicious cake is a classic for a reason! It’s made with basic pantry staples, making it perfect for those times when you need a comforting treat but don’t have many ingredients on hand.
Chocolate Depression Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 1/4 cups |
| Water | 1 1/4 cups |
| Vegetable oil | 1/2 cup |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1/3 cup |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Coffee (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Baking soda | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 3/4 teaspoon |
For the Frosting:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 2 1/2 – 3 cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/3 cup |
| Unsalted butter (room temperature) | 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt (optional) | Pinch |
Instructions:
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together water, oil, apple cider vinegar, coffee (if using), and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly until a smooth batter forms.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt (if using).
- Add wet ingredients: Gradually add water, softened butter, and vanilla extract, beating with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust consistency: Add more powdered sugar for a thicker frosting or more water for a thinner frosting, as needed.
- Frost: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost them with the chocolate frosting.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Chocolate Depression Cake!